Gary Kubiak Likes What He Sees

"The five-week period in which Texans coaches can work with players on the practice field ended Wednesday with the last day of minicamp.

Owner Bob McNair, general manager Rick Smith and coach Gary Kubiak left the Methodist Training Center knowing they have more talent than at any time in the team's eight-year history.

They also know fans have playoffs-or-bust expectations.

"The playoffs are why I came here," Kubiak said. "It's why I do what I do.

"We have high expectations. We're a better team than any time since I've been here. We're not going to be satisfied with another (8-8 record). I want more, a lot more. The players do, too.

"I'm looking forward to the journey because I like the guys I'm taking it with. We have tremendous character on this team."

When the Texans report for training camp July 30, their goals are to reduce turnovers and improve the red-zone offense and in all areas of defense. They've been 12-4 at home and 4-12 on the road over the last two years.

"The biggest progress we made last year was on offense (third in yards, 17th in scoring), but we still need to get better," Kubiak said. "This season, we have to get our defense caught up with our offense."

The Texans will have at least two new starters on defense in left end Antonio Smith and strong-side linebacker Brian Cushing, their first-round draft choice out of USC.

Cushing to start

"Rookies have to be big contributors to our team, but I don't imagine you're going to see three or four of them starting because we're a better team," Kubiak said. "Cushing has been a starter since the day he stepped off the bus. We're very happy with him.

"The (offseason program) went very well. The team's attitude is very positive. The young guys got more work than they ever have, and they made a lot of progress.

"The players worked real hard in the weight room. The leaders have taken charge. We have some great competition. I have to make sure, as a coach, that we get the reps evened out because we're going to have some tough decisions to make.""

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